Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry:

Fresh, flavorful, & FAST! Juicy beef, vibrant veggies, & creamy feta make this the perfect weeknight dinner. Get the recipe now!

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly *fast* weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is your answer. Imagine this: tender, juicy ground beef bursting with Mediterranean flavor, tossed with brightly colored vegetables that still have a satisfying crunch, all finished with a generous sprinkle of creamy, salty feta cheese. Doesn’t that sound amazing?

This recipe is all about simplicity and fresh, vibrant tastes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together – perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of lean ground beef, juicy vegetables, and the tangy feta creates a symphony of flavors and textures that’ll leave you wanting more. It’s a feel-good meal that’s both comforting and exciting, transporting you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean table with minimal effort. Get ready to treat your tastebuds to a culinary adventure – one that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying! This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights and deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. You’ll want to make it again and again!

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!

* 1 lb lean ground beef: The star of the show! Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic Mediterranean kick.
1red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a beautiful color and a slightly sweet crunch.
1green bell pepper, sliced: Provides a nice contrast in color and texture.
1zucchini, sliced: Adds a light, fresh element.
1cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursts of juicy sweetness.
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Their salty, briny flavor is a Mediterranean staple.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: The creamy, salty finish that elevates the dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: The heart of Mediterranean cuisine. Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
1tablespoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb.
1teaspoon dried basil: Adds another layer of aromatic complexity.
1/2 teaspoon salt: To taste, adjust to your preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is incredibly straightforward and comes together in a flash.

1. Prep the veggies: First, chop your onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell peppers and zucchini. Halve the cherry tomatoes and olives. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process a breeze. Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, pre-chopped vegetables are readily available in most grocery stores.

2. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Tip: Don’t burn the garlic! Lower the heat slightly if needed.

4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften slightly but still retain some crunch.

5. Season and simmer: Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add the cherry tomatoes and olives and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Serve it up: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately, allowing the warmth of the stir-fry to melt the feta slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Tip: Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a resounding success:

* Don’t overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Start checking for doneness around the 3-minute mark and adjust cooking time accordingly.
* Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
* Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh herbs will provide a more intense and vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs. If using fresh, reduce the amount by about 1/3.
* Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant.

Variations to Try

This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian sausage or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Lemon zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest adds a bright citrus note that complements the other flavors.
Different cheese: Try crumbled goat cheese instead of feta for a different creamy texture and flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Note: The feta cheese may become slightly less creamy upon reheating, but the dish will still be delicious! Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

* Can I use a different type of ground meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would also work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats cook faster.

* How long does the stir-fry keep in the refrigerator? This stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

* Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just be sure to add them towards the end of the cooking time so they don’t overcook.

* Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free soy sauce if you choose to add it.

* Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the stir-fry just before serving to ensure the vegetables are tender-crisp and the flavors are at their peak.

The Final Word

This Speedy Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry is a weeknight winner – it’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful! The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. The combination of juicy ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy feta is simply irresistible. Give it a try tonight, and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media using #MediterraneanStirFry. Happy cooking!

Sharing is caring!